Skip to content
Cub Cadet XT2 SLX50 review

Cub Cadet · Lawn Tractors

Cub Cadet XT2 SLX50 Review

The SLX50 adds armrests, cruise control and a heavy-duty Kohler V-twin to a 50-in. fabricated deck. It is a comfort upgrade over the LT50.

4.3 Our rating
Deck size
50 in
Horsepower
24 HP
Drive
2WD, hydrostatic
Fuel type
Gasoline

Rating breakdown

  • Performance 4.5
  • Build quality 4.5
  • Reliability 4.0
  • Value for money 3.5
  • Comfort & ergonomics 4.5
  • Features 4.5

Key specifications

Power typeGasoline
Horsepower24 HP
EngineKohler 7000 Series HD V-twin OHV, air-cooled
Displacement725 to 747 cc, 2 cylinders
Fuel typeGasoline
TransmissionFoot-pedal hydrostatic
Drive2WD, hydrostatic
Deck size50 in
Deck constructionFabricated AeroForce, 11-gauge steel, side discharge
Cutting height12 positions
BladesNot published by Cub Cadet
DischargeSide discharge; mulching and bagging with optional kits
Top speedNot published by Cub Cadet
Turning radiusNot published by Cub Cadet
Front tiresNot published by Cub Cadet
Rear tiresNot published by Cub Cadet
WeightNot published by Cub Cadet
Dimensions50-in. deck; see Cub Cadet spec sheet for full size
Fuel capacityNot published by Cub Cadet
Recommended property sizeAbout 2 to 4 acres
Seat15 in high-back with armrests, 10-degree incline
Anti-scalp wheelsFour gauge wheels
Deck liftManual
Deck washYes

Pros and cons

What we like

  • Armrests and cruise control
  • 24 hp Kohler HD V-twin
  • Fabricated 11-gauge AeroForce deck
  • Strong front wheel bearings
  • Lifetime limited deck-shell warranty

What could be better

  • About $1,000 more than the LT50
  • No fuel gauge listed
  • Manual deck lift
  • Similar cut to the cheaper LT50
  • Wide 50-in. deck

XT2 SLX50 review

Our take on the Cub Cadet XT2 SLX50

The Cub Cadet XT2 SLX50 is the comfort-focused 50-inch tractor in the Enduro lineup. It has a 24 hp Kohler HD V-twin and a 50-inch fabricated AeroForce deck. It adds cruise control and a 15-inch high-back seat with armrests. It costs about $1,000 more than the XT1 LT50.

Engine and drive

The engine is a Kohler 7000 Series HD V-twin of roughly 725 to 747 cc. It makes 24 hp. Cub Cadet describes the HD engine as built for reliable power. Drive is a foot-pedal hydrostatic transmission. Cruise control is standard.

Deck and cut

The deck is fabricated from 11-gauge steel. It has the AeroForce airflow design for fewer clumps and finer clippings. Four gauge wheels help prevent scalping. There are 12 cutting positions and a manual deck lift. A wash port is included.

Comfort and build

The seat is a 15-inch high-back with armrests. It has a 10-degree incline and a lever slide adjustment. Cub Cadet also lists strong front wheel bearings built for low friction. Steering is optimized for responsive handling.

Warranty

The warranty is 3 years with no hour limit. The frame and front axle carry 5 years. The fabricated deck shell has a limited lifetime warranty.

Limits to know about

The XT2 does not list a fuel gauge. The price is the main drawback. The cut and engine are close to the LT50. The SLX50 mostly adds comfort and refinement.

Who should buy it

Buy the SLX50 if you spend long hours mowing and value armrests and cruise control. Choose the LT50 if you want the same deck for less.

Buying information

Price

$3,999

List MSRP, base model. Freight and dealer setup may be extra. Check your dealer for current price.

Where to buy

Warranty

3 years with no hour limit, including the powertrain. The frame and front axle carry 5-year coverage. Fabricated decks add a limited lifetime deck-shell warranty. Check the current Cub Cadet warranty statement for full terms.

Depreciation and resale

No published resale figures. Check local used listings.

Ownership

Common problems

Spec-based limits: no fuel gauge and a manual deck lift. You pay extra mainly for comfort items.

Search owner discussions in the forum →

Maintenance

Change the oil and filter on schedule. Clean the air filter and inspect the blades each season. Rinse the deck through the wash port.

Frequently asked questions

How much horsepower does the Cub Cadet XT2 SLX50 have?

24 hp from a Kohler 7000 Series HD V-twin.

What deck does the SLX50 have?

A 50-inch fabricated AeroForce deck made from 11-gauge steel.

Does the SLX50 have cruise control?

Yes. Cruise control is standard.

How is the SLX50 different from the XT1 LT50?

The SLX50 adds armrests, a heavy-duty engine, front wheel bearings and cruise control.

How long is the SLX50 warranty?

3 years with no hour limit, 5 years on the frame and a limited lifetime deck shell.

Owner reviews

No owner reviews yet. Own one? Be the first to share what it is like to live with.

Review the XT2 SLX50

Overall rating
Rate the details (optional)
Performance
Build quality
Reliability
Value for money
Comfort & ergonomics
Features

Would you recommend it?

Reviews are checked by our team before they appear. Please keep it about the product and leave out links.